Sainz: No need for halo backlash due to looks

Carlos Sainz says he was surprised by the reaction from some F1 drivers against the halo cockpit protectors based on the aesthetics

Carlos Sainz says he was surprised by the reaction from some of his fellow F1 drivers against the introduction of the halo cockpit protectors based on the aesthetics of the concept and is confident it can be improved with development.

The Toro Rosso driver is part of the band strongly supporting the move to introduce a cockpit protector for the 2017 F1 season and sees no reason against testing the new safety feature if it could help save lives.

It is believed Justin Wilson and Henry Surtees could have been saved with the use of a cockpit protector, as both were struck on the helmet in the cockpit and died from their injuries.

Sainz feels the argument about the ugly appearance of the concept Ferrari trialled during pre-season testing can be resolved with a redesign and development work.

"Everyone has an opinion, I just know we lost two or three drivers due to head accidents and that I would like to have them here with be today fighting against me," Sainz said. "Surtees and Wilson with something like that their lives could have been saved so there is no reason why not to try something.

"The aesthetics we just need to solve and make nicer for the fans and for myself I want a F1 car to look nicer. This doesn't mean we need to take out of consideration something a bit safer."